How to Maximize the Life of Your Hose Assembly
Flexible hoses are vital pieces of equipment for any operation that requires the transfer of chemicals, steam, fuel or other hazardous substances. Most flexible hoses are used every day for prolonged periods, exposing them to continuous wear and tear. In some operations, wear and tear can occur in flexible hoses before they are even installed. Knowing how to maximize the life of your hose assembly is crucial for maximizing value and minimizing the potential of unwanted downtime. That is why the experts at Flextech Industries have provided some information on some commonly overlooked storage and maintenance considerations to help you maximize the usable life of your flexible hoses.
Learn how to tell if it is time to replace a rubber expansion joint.
Storage Considerations
How you store unused flexible hoses is highly important. For example, if you store your hoses outside without any protective coverings, you are exposing them to rain, dust, and other elements that can cause damage before installation, drastically reducing their usable life. If you order flexible hoses in bulk for your operation, it is important to determine the best location to store them. Every facility has several substances such as dust, chemical droplets, and moisture that can cause damage to unprotected hoses. These substances can build up on the surface and under the braid of a flexible hose, corroding the surface and reducing flexibility.
What are specialty transfer hoses?
To minimize the potential of wear and tear in storage, be sure to cover each flexible hose with a resealable plastic bag. Hoses should also be stored away from extreme temperatures if possible and kept in a sealed case or box to further limit exposure to particulates. This will help to ensure that your hoses are still in pristine condition when it is time to install them, maximizing their usable life.
Why is it so important to choose the right flexible hose?
Inspection and Maintenance Considerations
While storage considerations are important for hoses that will be used in the future, maintenance considerations are crucial for maximizing the service life of hoses that are currently in use. First and foremost, it is highly recommended to inspect all hose assemblies every day to look for signs of damage, twisting, loose connections, or leaks. If any of these signs are present, the defective elements should be replaced or repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage or significant downtime.
How to tell when it’s time to replace a flexible hose.
Regular cleaning schedules should also be established for each hose, coupler, and expansion joint (if applicable) to minimize the presence of dust and other particulates. This combination of thorough inspections and cleaning will help to maximize the usable life of your flexible hose assemblies while keeping you aware of any potential issues with your transfer systems.
To learn more about maximizing the life of your flexible hose assembly, get in touch with the experts at Flextech Industries. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our products.